Viewing RAW files

[civona]

I use a Canon 50D and take my photos in both a JPEG and RAW format. When I download them onto my PC, I can see the JPEG, but not the RAW files. I have Windows 7 64-bit OS.

I also downloaded the Canon Codec RAW software, but that only works for 32 bit systems. Is there a software program available to download or purchase that will allow me to view my photos?

[digital]

I sometimes run an image that I want to convert to B&W through Photomatix Pro first. You get some very nice tones and contrast. Does not always work but I have some landscape and foul weather shots that came out great.  

[SGFFX]

I like Photoshop Elements (latest is version12). It has an organizer with a lot of functionality to organize, view, and find images. It includes Adobe RAW to edit RAW files, and the Elements Editor which includes many Photoshop CS capabilities aimed at the amateur and prosumer. It has two user interfaces: novice and expert.